Storeroom 2010 November newsletter

IW Council Press Release - Recycing and Waste collections will be made a day earlier next week

Revised Recycling and Waste Collections from Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 November 2019

Due to the sad loss of a long standing and well respected member of our waste and recycling collection crew, there will be no waste or recycling collections on the 19 November to allow staff to attend the funeral.

Recycling and Waste Collections will be made a day in hand as follows:

Normal Collection Day	Revised Collection Day
Monday 18 November	NO CHANGE
Tuesday 19 November	Wednesday 20 November
Wednesday 20 November	Thursday 21 November
Thursday 21 November	Friday 22 November
Friday 22 November	Saturday 23 November

IW Council Press Release - Christmas shoppers to enjoy free parking

Christmas shoppers to enjoy free parking

Christmas shoppers can enjoy ‘free from three’ parking in Newport on selected Thursdays in the run-up to the big day.

Shaping Newport is supporting Newport Business Association’s late-night Christmas shopping events by providing free parking.

The offer applies to short-stay car parks only, from 3pm (maximum stay three hours), on the following dates — 28 November, 5 December, 12 December and 19 December.

The Shaping Newport programme — a partnership between the Newport Business Association (NBA), the Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council and the Isle of Wight Council — has contributed £1,500 to cover the costs of the potential lost parking revenue.

In addition, the Isle of Wight Council is offering free parking in short-stay car parks in Newport on Saturday, 30 November and Saturday, 14 December. The offer applies from 12 noon and has been provided to help support businesses during the St Mary’s junction improvement works.

The council will also celebrate Small Business Saturday on 7 December by offering free parking in all its long-stay car parks across the Island from 12 noon.

Association chairman, John McLoughlin, said: “Newport Business Association is delighted to be working collaboratively with the Isle of Wight Council’s regeneration team on organising late-night shopping in Newport.

“The Shaping Newport project has enabled us to have input into changes that are being made in our county town and to put forward our suggestions for initiatives such as this as well as to be part of working towards positive change.

“I really hope that the free parking will encourage people to explore the independent shops in Newport and shop local this Christmas.”

A Shaping Newport survey of more than 3,000 people highlighted many issues and local priorities for change and parking provision ranked eighth as a priority for locals with 409 comments on the topic.

IW Council Press Release - Winter discount offer for cars on the Floating Bridge

Extra winter discount offer for cars on floating bridge

A special extra winter discount offer is being introduced for cars using Cowes floating bridge from 11 November.

The offer, which will run until 31 March next year, will see the cost of a crossing reduced from £2 to £1.80 for saver card holders and from £2.60 to £2.40 for non-saver card holders.

The new discount is in addition to the offer of free saver cards during the St Mary’s improvement works.

Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, Councillor Ian Ward, said: “We are bringing in this additional scheme to further encourage use of the floating bridge during the winter, as well as during the St Mary’s improvement works.

“We are promoting the discount to businesses in both Cowes and East Cowes, and are also contacting existing saver card holders – as well as the usual social media messages for the public.”

You can collect a saver card by visiting Hall’s Premier Stores in East Cowes and Rashley’s Stores in Cowes, as well as asking the crew on the floating bridge. Details on how to top up your saver card can be found at www.iwfloatingbridge.co.uk

IW Council Press Release - General Election Writ now received

General election writ received

The Island has officially received the ‘writ from the clerk to the crown’ for the general election.

This official part of the process for a general election was overseen by Geoff Underwood, High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight and returning officer for parliamentary elections, and Claire Shand, acting returning officer.

The writ is issued by the Lord Chancellor and commands that an election be held for a member of Parliament for the Isle of Wight Constituency.

Once Parliament is dissolved, writs are hand delivered by Royal Mail managers to every constituency in the UK. Receipt of the writ on the Island was taken at 12.30pm on Thursday 7 November.

Once the count is complete following the general election on 12 December, to formalise the result, the returning officer must write the name of the winning candidate on the writ and return it to the clerk to the crown, who is based in the Houses of Parliament.

The day-to-day arrangements for the election on the Island are discharged by the acting returning officer.

Registering to vote

If you wish to vote in the general election, you will need to make sure you are registered before the deadline of Tuesday 26 November 2019. If you have already registered to vote for a previous election, you will already be on the electoral register and will not need to register again.

The simplest and easiest way to check if you are registered register is online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote and filling out the form, which takes around five minutes.

You will need your date of birth and national insurance number when completing this process to register.

Further information can be found at https://www.iow.gov.uk/Council/Elections/Electoral-Registration/About-Electoral-Registration 

IW Council Press Release - Free travel on the Floating Bridge on Remembrance Sunday

Free travel on the Floating Bridge for Veterans on Remembrance Sunday.

The Isle of Wight Council will join other Island travel operators and offer free travel this Sunday (10 November 2019) on the Cowes Floating Bridge for members and veterans of the Armed Forces.

The travel offer for foot passengers and those traveling by car will be available to those wearing their military uniform, displaying medals or showing their military ID card.

Cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, Councillor Ian Ward, a veteran himself, said “Our veterans and Armed Forces have given so much that we may live in an open and free society. 

“We do what we can to support our community and assist those that have made a significant contribution.  I for one am honoured to have served, and delighted that we can support those who helped protect us, on this national day of reflection and remembrance.”

IW Council Press Release - Budget Consultation launch

Have your say on council spending

Islanders are being invited to give their views on how the Isle of Wight Council should spend its money next year.

The council has launched its budget consultation today (Tuesday 5 November) — and residents, businesses, the voluntary sector and town and parish councils are being encouraged to have their say on spending and service priorities for 2020/21.

Councillor Stuart Hutchinson, deputy leader and Cabinet member for resources, said: “The input of Islanders is valuable to the shaping of our spending and service priorities for the year ahead.

“We welcome views from all contributors as we develop an innovative and workable budget — and one which will allow us to continue to provide sustainable services in the future, within a stable financial environment.”

Council leader Councillor Dave Stewart added: “My experience so far is that when called upon people on the Island will step forward with thoughts and ideas and I encourage everyone to give us their support.

“We have already been undertaking a thorough analysis of all our spending as part of the budget process – but it is vital we develop and enhance this with the input of all sectors on the Island.

“We are determined to deliver a robust, workable and forward-looking budget.”

You can give your views online over the next six weeks by visiting: https://www.iow.gov.uk/Council/OtherServices/Financial-Management/Budget-Consultation 

IW Council Press Release - Free entry to the Museum of Island History to celebrate shipwrecks exhibition

With the Newport Visitor Information Centre moving to new premises at Newport Bus Station, the Isle of Wight Council’s Museum of Island History is still open for visitors and planning an exciting new exhibition.

The Visitor Information Centre is moving out of the Guildhall, and the extra space means there will be more room for displays and interactive school visits to the museum. After a short refurbishment the council’s Heritage Service will re-open the Museum of Island History on Saturday 30 November with a free entry morning to celebrate the new exhibition ‘A Tale of Two Shipwrecks’. Visitors can drop into the museum for free between 10am and 1pm. There will be craft activities for families, hands-on items to explore and identification of archaeological artefacts by Frank Basford from the Portable Antiquities Scheme. From Tuesday December 3 onwards the museum will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am – 1pm throughout the winter, with two weeks off at Christmas and New Year. Admission to the museum will be reduced to just £1 for the winter period. Curator Corina Westwood said “We’ve enjoyed working with Visit Isle of Wight, and we hope the Newport Visitor Information Centre will be an even bigger success in its new home. “The Museum of Island History is still very much a part of Newport’s visitor attraction, and throughout the winter we have a programme of activities and events as well as the great new exhibition featuring the extraordinary tales of HMS Pomone and the Yarmouth Roads Wreck. There will be some rarely-seen artefacts on show, like the spectacular fitting to a Royal Navy Officer’s brass sword-belt.”

IW Council Press Release - Next Phase of the St Mary's junction scheme

One-way restriction to be lifted on Forest Road as St Mary's junction scheme enters its next phase

The one-way restriction on Forest Road looks set to be lifted on Monday morning (4 November) as planned.

The road will revert to two-way traffic as the major scheme to reduce traffic congestion and improve access for pedestrians and cyclists at St Mary’s junction enters its next phase.

The work has already seen an additional lane created around the B&Q roundabout providing better access from the industrial estate, while work to widen the link between that roundabout and Medina Way is on schedule to finish on 15 November 2019.

In the next phase of work to begin on Monday, Forest Road will revert to two-way traffic, while all other approaches to the St Mary’s roundabout will be reduced by one lane while works to remove the central reservations and roundabout take place.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: “These works are scheduled to be completed by 20 December 2019 and during this period the capacity of the roundabout will be significantly reduced.

“This may lead to extended queuing on all approaches to the roundabout in peak periods and we would urge people to take note of the information on both the council’s and Island Roads’ websites to help them plan their journeys and to allow more time for travel.

“As we enter the next phase of this extremely complex project, we are pleased to report the work is running to schedule and we thank the travelling public for their understanding and patience so far. We do recognise road works can be extremely frustrating for the community and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

“We would remind residents that construction will pause over the Christmas and New Year holiday to help minimise disruption during the festive period. We will also soon be announcing details of free parking in Newport on selected afternoons in the run up to Christmas to support our business community.”

This project is just one of a much wider package of junction improvements which, once complete, will make journeys for those travelling in and around Newport much easier with fewer delays.

IW Council Press Release - Undercliff Drive consultation comes out in favour of re-opening road to through traffic

Undercliff Drive consultation comes out in favour of re-opening road to through traffic

A consultation on the future of Undercliff Drive has come out in favour of re-opening the road to through traffic.

The council carried out a six-week consultation over the summer seeking the views of residents, businesses and visitors on possible plans to re-open the road which suffered significant landslips in 2014.

Around 770 surveys were completed either online or in hard copy form with around 58 per cent of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing to the reinstatement of the road to vehicular traffic.

This compared to around 40 per cent of people who strongly disagreed or disagreed with the reinstatement proposals. The remainder neither agreed nor disagreed.

Almost two thirds (63 per cent) of people who gave a PO38 Ventnor postcode — the area in which the Undercliff is located — either agreed or strongly agreed with the proposal.

However, the views of the rest of the Island were less clear with 47 per cent of respondents either agreeing or strongly agreeing with the proposal and an almost identical proportion, 46 per cent, disagreeing or strongly disagreeing.

The full findings can be viewed here on the council's website.

Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet member for infrastructure, said: “The Undercliff is a complex issue that doesn’t lend itself to a quick solution.

“Following the outcome of this survey, we have asked officers to source possible funding for a range of investigative studies which we need before we can consider an appropriate way forward.

“However, in the meantime, I have asked officers to consider a potential package of road safety improvements for Niton to address the influx in traffic the village has experienced since the road closure.

“This includes measures Niton Parish Council discussed with me earlier in the year.”

Council leader, Councillor Dave Stewart, said: “Firstly, can I thank everybody who took the time to complete the survey on this very important issue that not only impacts on Niton, but the whole Island.

“We fully appreciate that some local residents do have legitimate concerns of which we will be mindful.

“My view is it cannot be beyond our engineering capability to find a way to remedy a landslip of less than 100 metres.

“We have houses and businesses spread along the length of the Undercliff but the economic damage of the closure has spread well beyond these areas with businesses as far away as the West Wight also noticing a drop in trade and tourism following the closure.”

Undercliff Drive was affected by major ground movement during the very wet winter of 2013/14. The landslides led to the loss of the road at two locations, land-locking nine homes.

Currently, the cost to re-instate the road is estimated to be between £1 million and £2 million.

The main reasons given by those in favour of reinstating the road were improved accessibility, the benefit to tourism and businesses on the Island and the increase in traffic in other locations resulting from the closure.

Those against the proposals - which included Ventnor Town Council - cited the cost of the work, the risk of future landslips and the ecological impacts among their concerns.

The cost of producing a design to re-open the road to traffic is estimated to be around £200,000, and would involve topographic surveys, ground investigation boreholes, a stability analysis and an environmental impact assessment.

Currently, the cost to re-instate the road is estimated to be between £1 million and £2 million, dependent on whether the scheme allowed one or two-way traffic and if the new route was restricted to vehicles below a certain weight.

The council has acknowledged that ground movement will continue in the future and any investment in the area will need to take this into account.

IW Council Press Release - Residents advised of changes to the Island's gritting routes

Residents advised of changes to Island gritting routes

A fleet of gritting machines will return to the Island’s main routes this winter to keep conditions as safe as possible for motorists.

The Isle of Wight Council has published a gritting route map to help people identify those routes which will be treated in freezing conditions as part of its winter maintenance service.

Around 35 per cent of the Island’s total road network will continue to be treated this year — considerably more than the 25 per cent average for local authorities in the South East.

However, as part of the council’s 2019-20 budget savings, and following a full risk assessment, a number of roads have been removed from this year’s programme including the Military Road, Thorley and Wellow Main Roads, East Ashey Lane and Yaverland Road.

The route between Northwood and Shalfleet via Porchfield, and including Whitehouse Road to Vittlefields Cross, will be treated in the expectation of higher than normal traffic volumes using this route during the St Mary’s junction improvement works

Cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, Councillor Ian Ward, said: “The council’s focus has to be on the Island’s primary routes — those carrying the highest volumes including key commuter routes — as it is not practical or economical to salt every road.

“Despite the need to make savings to set a balanced budget, we have ensured our arterial routes are covered to keep the Island moving in times of snow and ice. We will continue to monitor the situation and, should the need arise, carry out bespoke gritting where necessary.

“We will also continue to treat pavements in town centre locations in snowy conditions.”

Island Roads, which deliver the winter service on behalf of the council, typically run the service from November until the end of March, however the company began its close monitoring of the network conditions at the start of October to ensure that any abnormally cold spell could be responded to if required.

They have also taken delivery of around 1,600 tonnes of salt, a comparable amount to previous years, in readiness for the winter season.

Later this month the company will also begin its annual Autumn Parade when all the winter fleet of vehicles and equipment are re-tested, and drivers ride out in the gritting vehicles to familiarise themselves with the new routes.

Councillor Ward added: “Please take extra care when driving in dangerous conditions, especially if the roads are icy or frosty, or if it’s snowing.

“Always drive according to the conditions. Just because a road has been gritted doesn’t mean it is safe to drive at normal speeds in poor weather conditions.

“While we do everything we can to keep traffic moving during severe winter weather, it is important for drivers to drive with caution and consider whether their journey is absolutely necessary.

“I’d urge road users to visit http://www.islandroads.com/27-winter-service-.html which features a winter maintenance map highlighting the routes which will be salted in the event of ice and snow.”

Contact Information

Martin NevilleIsle of Wight
martin.neville@iow.gov.uk

Details of the Public Information Event on St Mary's Roundabout Works

Tickets still available for public information event on St Mary's roundabout works

Tickets are still available for a public information event to discuss major works to remodel the junction of St Mary’s roundabout in Newport.

Residents wishing to hear more about the scheme to replace the existing roundabout with two, linked traffic light-controlled junctions are invited to attend the meeting at Medina Theatre, tomorrow (Thursday, 17 October) at 7pm.

The panel will include senior officers from the Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads as well as council leader, Dave Stewart, and the Cabinet member for infrastructure and transport, Councillor Ian Ward.

As well as presentations on the improvement work and the traffic management arrangements, there will be an opportunity for people to ask questions.

Councillor Ward said: “This is an opportunity for residents to find out more about the St Mary’s scheme and the wider package of junction improvements which, once complete, will make journeys for those travelling in and around Newport much easier with fewer delays.

“Islanders will hear how we are delivering this important project and the measures being taken to minimise the impact of the road works on people’s journeys and local residents.

“A key part of the meeting will be the opportunity for residents to ask us questions about the scheme and we would encourage people to attend.”

The St Mary’s scheme will transform the approaches to the roundabout with new widened shared-use cycle and pedestrian facilities, an additional lane around the B&Q mini roundabout providing better access from the industrial estate and a dedicated bus lane at the exit from Medina Way northbound at the junction with Hunnyhill.

Tickets to the public information event must be booked in advance by visiting https://www.iow.gov.uk/theatrebookings/, or are available from the theatre Box Office on 01983 823884.

Isle of Wight Jobs, Education and Career Fair

Isle of Wight Jobs, Education and Career Fair 

30th October 2019 

Isle of Wight College

The event, organised by the Isle of Wight Council and hosted by the Isle of Wight College,  is supported by the Department of Work and Pensions.  

In addition to this, the Apprenticeship Support Network will be having a section to promote apprenticeships with different companies from different industries there to talk about Apprenticeships and the opportunities that they can give.  There will be apprentices there so that direct questions can be asked to see what it is really like to be in that industry and to be an apprentice.  

As well as this the Apprenticeship Support Network will be launching their free handy support booklet which answers all of those questions that you may want to ask about apprenticeships but don't know who to ask.

POA Learning will also be doing a couple of taster sessions in the day in the presentation room - one on Understanding Autism and one on Dyslexia. 

This is a fantastic opportunity on the Island for anybody looking for a job,  to find out information about different Companies, apprenticeships or career routes, including the college and university route.  There will be a 'job' board on the day that will be advertising new and current jobs and plenty of employers and advisers to speak to. 

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Beer and Buses event for 2019

Beer and Buses event 2019

IW Council Press Release - Fun things are happening this half term at Newport Roman Villa

Fearfully good family fun for half term

Frightfully fun things are happening this half term at Newport Roman Villa, with a range of craft activities to keep your little monsters occupied.

At half term, the villa, at Cypress Road, Newport, will be open for three activity craft days and for visitors to see the remains, Roman bath suite and the garden.

No booking is required, the entry fee is £1 on each activity day and includes admission and all activities.

Peculiar pop up puppets
On Wednesday 23 October, from 10.30am to 3pm, you can make your own unique puppet toy, inspired by Roman toys and games.

Crazy catapult
Fancy making your own working catapult? Come and have a go on Monday 28 October, between 10.30am and 3pm, where you can make one to take home with you, as well as finding out more about how Romans used these machines in warfare.

Mixed-up monsters
Wednesday 30 October is mixed-up monsters clay day at Newport Roman Villa. Be inspired by mythical beasts and make your own clay monster to take home.

As well as the craft activities there will be a different photo hunt on each day to help you explore the villa – collect the foul facts on Roman life and find out more revolting revelations about life in Roman times.

For more information on the events, call (01983) 823433, email: museums@iow.gov.uk or visit:  www.iwight.com/museums 

These events are organised by the Isle of Wight Council's Heritage Service.

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Islanders to consider fostering

Could you change a child's life?

Foster carers are making a positive difference to the lives of Island children.

Around 100 foster carers are working tirelessly on the Isle of Wight to ensure children in care experience the stability and security of a nurturing, loving home.

Debbie Price, the Isle of Wight Council’s new service manager for children in care, is keen to encourage Islanders to consider fostering to enable more youngsters who are unable to live with their birth family to remain on the Island.

She said: “Children's Services would like all children in care in the future to remain on the Island, unless they need to be on the mainland to best meet their needs.

“We are passionate about supporting children to be able to live within their communities when it isn’t possible for them to live with their own families."

Some foster carers will care for children in an emergency situation until longer-term arrangements can be made. Others will look after children short-term until the child can return home or move on to a permanent placement.

Many foster carers provide support on a long-term basis, often for the duration of their childhood.

Debbie said: “Foster carers make the biggest difference to children’s lives when they come into care and they are just regular people doing their best, just as they do for their own families.

“The best foster carers are the ones that are enthusiastic, caring and fun. They need to enjoy spending time with children and have the patience to build relationships with children who don’t easily trust adults.

“You don’t need to have fostered before to be a good foster carer, but we would always welcome applications from people with experience.

“Children want time, support and encouragement and to be allowed to get it wrong sometimes. It is amazing to see the change in them and their foster carers when they feel settled.”

All foster carers undertake training on the Island to prepare and support them in their important role.

They receive regular supervision from the fostering team and children also have their own allocated social worker.

Debbie added: “I really enjoy supporting foster carers to develop their skills with vulnerable children. Hearing their stories about how proud they are of the children they care for makes it easier to get through the more difficult days we all have sometimes.

“People usually consider fostering for a long time before they have the courage to put themselves forward.

“If you are interested in fostering then give us a call on 01983 823160 or come along to one of our events to find out more.”

For more information, visit www.iwight.com/fostering or follow @Isle of Wight fostering and adoption on Facebook. 

Recruitment events, when people can learn more about fostering, are being held at 30 High Street, Newport, on Monday, 7 October, 12.30pm-2pm and Saturday, 12 October, 10am-1pm.

Contact Information

Martin NevilleIsle of Wight
martin.neville@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Winter Shelter to be Provided for the Homeless

Isle of Wight Council to provide winter shelter for those experiencing homelessness

A new safe place for homeless people to take shelter in during the colder winter months is to be provided by the Isle of Wight Council.

The local authority is opening an emergency winter shelter at the former Barton Primary School site in Newport.

As well as providing rough sleepers with a warm, safe place to sleep and hot food in the coldest months, the shelter will enable the council to make contact with this very vulnerable group of people so it can help find a permanent solution to their housing needs.

Councillor Clare Mosdell, Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and housing needs, said the council was very clear that no one should have to sleep rough.

She said: "Living on the streets is one of the most dangerous, frightening and isolating experiences anyone could face. 

“In previous years, a variety of churches have done a brilliant job in providing rolling emergency night shelter provision and we pay tribute to all of the faith leaders for their compassion and commitment in opening churches for the night.

“However, I believe we should not have to rely on others to fund such a vital service.

"As a council, we have a moral duty of care for our residents and, for that reason, I have worked hard to ensure we can provide what should be a basic human right given to everyone — safe shelter. 

"This type of initiative illustrates how the council can make use of its facilities to aid those most in need.

"For me, it is about building trust and helping people to turn their lives around." 

The council is commissioning the Salvation Army, an expert in homeless services, to lead the service which will offer much more than just a safe sanctuary for the night.

In many cases, people experiencing homelessness are already facing multiple complexities, which are compounded further by spending even one night sleeping on the street.

Those in need on the Island will be provided with a caring arm to help them rebuild their lives and address the reasons for their rough sleeping. The service will also help people access the support they need, such as welfare benefits or healthcare.

The council is being supported by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through the winter fund it has made available, helping towards site renovation costs and service delivery.

The local authority has worked closely with organisations within the local community, including Medina House School, to ensure all potential risks posed by the winter shelter are mitigated.

The ward councillor, Geoff Brodie, said: “We used to have a winter homeless shelter at the current Barton Primary School site after Downside Middle School closed in 2011, but that had to close after winter 2015 due to the Barton school move.

“I am pleased to see the old Barton school being used for something that is sadly still much needed by those unfortunate enough to be without a roof over their head.”

Contact Information

Martin NevilleIsle of Wight
martin.neville@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Views sought on Advocacy

Views sought on advocacy

Isle of Wight residents are being asked their views on the independent advocacy provision offered through the council.

An independent advocate supports someone to understand and be involved in the assessment of their needs and planning of their care.  They can also help a person to make decisions when they are the subject of a safeguarding review or need to change their accommodation.  The advocate will help the person to express their needs and wishes and will represent their best interests.

Cabinet member for adult social care, Councillor Clare Mosdell, said: “The council is currently reviewing the independent advocacy services it provides in order to improve and develop this valuable support provision for local residents.

“We want to gather feedback from Island residents to support this review so that people’s experience, knowledge and comments are able to help us to shape the service for the future”.

This service is currently delivered, on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council, by Southern Advocacy Services. 

The survey can be viewed at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/AdvocacyServices2019   

It opens today (Monday 7 October 2019) and closes at midday Friday 15 November 2019.

Drop-in session

If you would like to talk about your views or receive help to complete the survey, please come along to the drop-in session being held at the Riverside Centre, The Quay, Newport PO30 2QR, from 10am to 2pm on Tuesday 12 November 2019. 

How to complete the survey

Online

The survey can be viewed at: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/AdvocacyServices2019    

With help

Your carer or family will undoubtedly help you if you would like assistance completing the survey.

However, if you would like other independent support to complete this survey, please contact People Matter IW on (01983) 241494.

Printed version

Hard copies are available from council libraries; County Hall reception, Newport; People Matter IW, Bernard Way, Newport;  The Riverside Centre, Newport and Carers IW office, which is also based at The Riverside.

Paper copies must be returned to the following FREEPOST address by 5pm on Monday 18 November 2019

FREEPOST RTGE-TBEC-BYAY

Adult social Care

County Hall

High Street

Newport

Isle of Wight

PO30 1UD

All responses received are confidential and the feedback gathered will be used to help design a community offer that best meets the needs of the people who need it.

Further general information regarding advocacy can be found at: https://www.iow.gov.uk/Residents/Care-Support-and-Housing/Adults-Services/Adult-Social-Care-Advocacy/Advocacy-and-Advocates

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk

Storeroom 2010 - September newsletter

Cowes Men's Shed Hog Roast event - 16 October

Cowes Men's Shed Pop Up Shop - 16 October

IW Council Press Release - Cowes Floating Bridge back in service

Floating bridge back with saver card offer

The floating bridge will return to service at 5am on Monday 30 September, having had both prow hinges strengthened.

As a goodwill gesture, the council is offering the floating bridge Saver Card at no cost for the duration of the St Mary’s junction improvement works, instead of the usual £2 fee to buy one.

The saver cards provide discounted travel on Cowes floating bridge.

Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said: “Now the floating bridge is back in service, it will provide an easy and valuable option for Cowes and East Cowes commuters, during the St Mary’s roadworks, as well as supporting the economy of those communities.

“I would also like to thank the staff and engineers who have worked tirelessly to make sure the vessel returned to service ready for Monday.

“I also hope people will take advantage of the free Saver Card offer, as it is the cheapest and simplest way to use the floating bridge. It works in the same way as the Oyster Card in London, with cash credit stored in an online account which deducts money as and when it’s used.”

The floating bridge current timetable can be found at https://www.iwfloatingbridge.co.uk/timetable/

Once registered, the Saver Card gives a considerable saving to floating bridge users, in comparison to the casual ‘pay as you go’ rate.

Cards are available from Rashley’s convenience store, Park Road, Cowes and Halls Convenience store, Ferry Road, East Cowes.

Cards must be registered online for the savings to apply.

For more information about the Saver Card, visit: https://www.iwfloatingbridge.co.uk/saver-card/

The vessel has had its prow and hinge mechanism on the Cowes side repaired and the decision was taken to also strengthen the East Cowes side while the floating bridge was out of the water, to minimise the risk of having to take the vessel out of service, should a similar problem arise during the St Mary’s Roundabout roadworks.

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Isle of Wight Council to challenge government-driven housing targets

Isle of Wight Council to challenge government-driven housing targets

Government-driven housing targets which could see almost 10,000 new homes built on the Island over the next 15 years look set to be challenged by the Isle of Wight Council.

The authority intends to prepare an evidence-based case that demonstrates the real housing needs of the Island.

The move comes in direct response to comments and concerns raised by residents in respect to housing numbers contained in the draft Island Planning Strategy – or Local Plan.

Using a new common formula set down by government for councils to “objectively assess housing need”, the plan proposed an annual housing target for the Island of 641 homes.

Council leader Dave Stewart said the authority had listened to Islanders’ concerns and would now seek to put forward its own calculation based on fact, rather than a formula.

As part of that, he said he would work closely with Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely to argue the Island’s unique circumstances and what could realistically be achieved in terms of housing delivery.

But he warned: “We can’t just say to the minister we don’t want any houses on the Isle of Wight.

“We have over 2,500 people on our housing register, including people in temporary accommodation, so I don’t accept the argument we do not need houses. I do accept the point that we need the right homes in the right places.

“We must provide homes that meet the needs of the Island; housing of all types and tenures including more affordable housing."

Councillor Stewart said the authority would gather evidence in several ways, including engaging with town and parish councils and the Isle of Wight Association of Local Councils (IWALC), to establish local housing needs information to inform the council’s approach.

Housing is just one element of the Local Plan which sets the approach to planning for the Island up to 2035.

The current draft document, which was published for public consultation in 2018, will be redrafted and be subject to further engagement and consultation before replacing the ‘Core Strategy’ which has been in place since 2012.

The council’s planning team is still working through all the comments received during the initial consultation phase to produce a further version of the plan in the new year.

A further consultation will be launched in March 2020.

Contact Information

Martin NevilleIsle of Wight
martin.neville@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Further Update on the Cowes Floating bridge

Further update on floating bridge

The floating bridge will return service at the end of next week.  

The reason for the extended delay is that, in addition to the completion of the current works to repair the prow and hinge mechanism on the Cowes prow side, we are taking the opportunity while the vessel is out of the water to also replace the prow and hinge mechanism on the East Cowes side to ensure the continued operation of the bridge.

This will not only address the current problem but also minimise the likelihood of having to take the vessel out of service, should a similar problem arise during the St. Mary’s Roundabout road works.

The council recognises the value and option the floating bridge will provide during the proposed St Mary’s road works to help mitigate disruption and provide an alternative to commuters and other road users in the Cowes and East Cowes area, as well as supporting the economy of those communities.

Both prows will be tested and it is expected the vessel will be back in full service by 30 September. The foot passenger launch will remain in place in the meantime, offering a shuttle service for pedestrians between 5am to 11pm daily.

The improvement works to the vessel are part of our strategy to maintain a good and reliable service for the floating bridge, as reflected in recent figures of use. Approximately 200,000 foot passengers and 78,000 cars used the bridge over the last four months.

These figures are publicly available, on the dedicated floating bridge website at: https://www.iwfloatingbridge.co.uk/about/ferry-stats/  

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk

Newport Road, Northwood - Resurfacing Dates

As all should be aware, Island Roads had intended to commence the three night resurfacing treatment for this scheme on Monday 25th, but this was delayed due to adverse weather conditions.

It is now their intention to commence the resurfacing tonight, and works are scheduled to take place from 10pm through to 5am.  Though the crew should be on site earlier than 10pm for prep works. 

Hopefully the dry weather prevails and they can complete the scheme overnight on Friday. 

IW Council Press Release - Next Phase of Fishbourne Lane improvements

Next phase of Fishbourne Lane improvements about to start

The final phase of major work to improve Fishbourne Lane is set to begin at the end of the month. The night-time work by Island Roads will see further sections of Fishbourne Lane reconstructed to address weak foundations and the entire length between Elenors Grove and the Wightlink Terminal resurfaced. The work is scheduled to start on 30 September and last an estimated five weeks, during which time night-time road closures will be in place. Island Roads has liaised closely with residents, Wightlink and Fishbourne Parish Council and will be working reduced shifts in order to keep disruption to a minimum. As a result, working shifts will be between the later start time of 9pm and the earlier finish time of 3.30am Monday to Thursday and 10pm to 3.30am on Fridays. There will be no work on Saturday or Sunday nights. During the project’s work hours Fishbourne Lane will be closed to traffic but pedestrian access will remain  Wightlink has consequently amended its timetable to reflect the closure of Fishbourne Lane during these night-time project work hours and is providing extra sailings on its Yarmouth to Lymington route. You can read more about Wightlink’s services during this work on  https://www.wightlink.co.uk/information/fishbourne-lane-roadworks/ Keith Gourlay, Island Roads’ Construction Manager, said: “As well as Fishbourne Lane looking better, the work will mean it will also have a much better ride quality which should also reduce the noise of traffic travelling across it. “Once again we would like to thank residents, local businesses and Wightlink and their customers for their ongoing co-operation and understanding during this project.” The scheme is part of the Island’s Highway Improvement Programme which is financed in the main through a grant of £477 million awarded by the Department for Transport. ENDS For further information, please contact info@islandroads.com or visit www.islandroads.com Island Roads, made up of VINCI Concessions, Meridiam Infrastructure and Ringway, is working in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council to deliver the highways maintenance service. Island Roads began from 1 April 2013. Ringway is a well-established and experienced highway maintenance service provider in the United Kingdom and has worked on the Island for many years.

IW Council Press Release - Information evening as major junction remodelling work gets underway in Newport

Public invited to information evening as major junction remodelling work gets underway in Newport

Residents are being invited to an information evening at Medina Theatre as major works to remodel the junction at St Mary’s roundabout get underway next week.

The 15-month scheme will replace the existing roundabout with two, linked traffic light-controlled junctions.

Preparatory works, including the set-up of a site compound/works depot, are due to start on Monday (30 September).

At this point, most of the approaches to the roundabout will be unaffected with all existing lanes open to traffic north and southbound between Cowes and Newport on either side of the roundabout.

The major change during this period until Monday, 4 November will be Forest Road which will become one-way eastbound into Newport from its junction with Argyle Road.

This is to accommodate works by BT, WightFibre and SSE high voltage cabling works ahead of the road widening work at this junction.

A signed diversion will be in place for traffic heading towards Gunville and West Wight via Medina Way, St Georges Way, Trafalgar Road, Carisbrooke Road and Gunville Road.

During this phase, work will also take place to introduce the additional lane to the B&Q mini roundabout.

This will start in mid-October for five weeks, including two weeks of night-time work during which the mini roundabout will be closed to traffic. Works undertaken here during the day will not affect traffic movement.

In the second phase of work, from Monday, 4 November to 20 December, Forest Road will revert to two-way traffic, while all other approaches to the St Mary’s roundabout will be reduced by one lane while works to remove the central reservations and roundabout take place.

While static and electronic signs are already out on site to advise of the forthcoming works and an extensive letter drop, bus information screens, social media, information display boards, stakeholder briefings, website updates, press adverts and information have been issued, the council and its contractors Island Roads, are keen to ensure that residents have the opportunity to ask questions about the scheme and the traffic arrangements being put in place.

A public information evening is therefore being held at Medina Theatre on Thursday, October 17 at 7pm for anyone wishing to hear more about the works.

Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet member responsible for transport and infrastructure, said: “The scheme is the largest project to date to improve current and predicted future traffic volumes and traffic flow in and around Newport and facilitate the planned redevelopment in the area including a major project at Camp Hill.

“The scheme is particularly complex because we need to complete the work while keeping this busy junction open to traffic.

“We have carried out extensive communications already ahead of the works starting but recognise there may still be people who have questions about the scheme and the traffic arrangements being put in place and we are therefore holding this information evening so we can answer their questions.

“In the meantime, we would also urge people to take note of the information on both the council’s and Island Roads’ websites to help them plan their journeys and to allow more time for travel, especially at peak times.”

The scheme will transform the approaches to the roundabout with new widened shared-use cycle and pedestrian facilities, an additional lane around the B&Q mini roundabout providing better access from the industrial estate and a dedicated bus lane at the exit from Medina Way northbound at the junction with Hunnyhill.

St Mary’s is the largest of a much wider package of junction improvements which, once complete, will make journeys for those travelling in and around Newport much easier with fewer delays.

Other schemes within the overall Newport Strategic Junction Improvements, such as the new arrangements at St George’s Way and Shide, have already been implemented, while others which will follow in the next three to five years — including the link between Coppins Bridge and the Matalan roundabout, which has also been given the go ahead — are still being planned.

Council leader David Stewart added: “Councillor Ward and I have engaged with officers to explore what further steps can be brought forward for Coppins Bridge itself.

“Considerations include lane realignment, traffic light management, turning lights off when not essential, and improved access signage for vehicles entering and exiting the roundabout from different locations.

"I am also keen to see plans for a Medina Bridge progress as soon as practicable. I believe this holds the long-term solution to much of the lack of infrastructure identified and will have a positive environmental impact as well as alleviate the congestion.

"We are already underway with the feasibility study and I aim to bring plans forward as soon as possible to we can get funding and take this project forward for the benefit of our community."

Tickets to the public information event must be obtained in advance by visiting https://www.iow.gov.uk/theatrebookings/, or from the theatre Box Office.

For more information on the scheme visit www.islandroads.com or www.iow.gov.uk/ 

Contact Information

Martin NevilleIsle of Wight
martin.neville@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - Further Update on the Floating bridge

Further update on floating bridge

The floating bridge will unfortunately be out of service until the end of next week, following a further assessment of works undertaken so far.

We had hoped that, following considerable progress to repair the prow and hinge mechanism on the vessel, we would have it in service earlier. However, following the assessment of work and parts required today, it is not a simple fix, as had been hoped.

This is due to additional works being required as well as the supply and fitting of both standard and bespoke parts. Once the prow and hinge repairs have been completed, a crane will be used to lift the prow section back into place.

Both prows will then be tested and once this is satisfactorily completed, it is hoped the vessel will be back in service at the end of the week.

The foot passenger launch will remain in place in the meantime, offering a shuttle service between 5am to 11pm daily, until the floating bridge is back in service.

We apologise again for the inconvenience and thank residents for their patience as well as the staff and engineers on site who are working as hard as they can to get the service back up and running.

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk

IW Council Press Release - The Museum of Island History at Newport Guildhall and Newport Roman Villa will be opening free of charge on set days in September.

Take a trip through time – for free!

The Museum of Island History at Newport Guildhall and Newport Roman Villa will be opening free of charge on set days in September.

The attractions are among more than 5,000 properties across the country to be opening their doors as part of Heritage Open Days 2019.

The Museum of Island History will be open for free on Friday 20 September between 10.30am and 3pm.

On display is the new exhibition: ‘A Tale of Two Shipwrecks’, exploring two very different shipwrecks located off the Isle of Wight - the HMS Pomone and the Yarmouth Roads Wreck.

HMS Pomone was wrecked off the Needles in 1811. There are incredible artefacts on display which belonged to members of the ship’s crew and passengers including a pair of sugar tongs, part of a sextant, and a syringe from a doctor’s kit. The loss of the Pomone is documented through extensive letters and diaries that bring alive the events of the fateful night and provide an insight into the characters on board.

The exhibition will also tell the tale of the Yarmouth Roads Wreck. This mystery ship is thought to be a late 16th century Spanish merchant carrack and is located just off Yarmouth Pier, marked by a large yellow buoy.

Visitors’ archaeological finds can be examined by Frank Basford from the Portable Antiquities Scheme, while other artefacts found on the Isle of Wight can be viewed and explored ‘hands on’.

Newport Roman Villa, in Cypress Road, Newport, will be open free of charge on Saturday 21 September between 10.30am and 3pm.

The incredible remains of this Roman farmhouse are hidden away on the outskirts of Newport and were discovered in 1926. The Roman Villa has one of the best examples of a Roman bath suite in Southern England. Heritage Service staff will be on site to show you around and there will be a photo hunt and craft activities for families.

Both days have been organised by the Isle of Wight Council’s Heritage Service.

“Our heritage service provides a great introduction to Island history and culture. I would like to invite residents and tourists alike, especially if they have never been before, to take advantage of the opportunity to find out more, for free, about our history,” said Cabinet member for environment and heritage, Councillor John Hobart.

“I’m particularly looking forward to viewing the new shipwreck exhibition – our Island has always had a long and varied marine history. Once again, our hard-working staff have provided some fantastic activities and events, open to all, for this annual event.”

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture, bringing together over 2,500 organisations, 5,000 events and 40,000 volunteers. Every year in September, places across the country throw open their doors to celebrate their heritage, community and history. This year is the 25th anniversary of the national scheme.

For more information please contact museums@iow.gov.uk or call (01983) 823433 or visit the website at www.iwight.com/museums 

You can also contact Visit Isle of Wight’s Newport Visitor Information Centre on (01983) 521555, ext 32.
To contact Newport Roman Villa call (01983) 529720.

For further information on Heritage Open Days, please visit https://www.heritageopendays.org.uk  

Contact Information

Joanne Sedgmondjoanne.sedgmond@iow.gov.uk